If you’re in the Glasgow area you might have dealt with John at some point over the last 40+ years. Currently our Glasgow Govan Depot Manager, John started with the company in October 1983, meaning he has actually been with the company longer than our current Managing Director, Andy Martin, the second generation family owner!
We sat down to learn about his journey within Martin Plant Hire and see what advice he’d have for anyone looking to get into the industry.
What was your job role when you started with Martin Plant Hire?
In October 1983 I started as a trainee/apprentice – attended Springburn college for 4 years doing Construction Plant Maintenance (won apprentice of the year twice.)
What is your job role now?
Manager of the Glasgow depot.
Tell us about the journey between the two?
Martin Plant Hire opened Glasgow Parkhead depot in summer of 1994 and I was offered role of Hire Desk Controller, moving from the workshop. In between I did just over a year on the road in sales for experience, and then returned to Parkhead depot. Over a period of time the staff levels increased from 2 and peaked at 9 due to demand in East End of Glasgow. I then oversaw the 3 Glasgow depots and moved permanently to Govan depot in January 2018.
What has kept you at Martin Plant Hire this long?
Career progress and Andy [Martin, MD] has allowed me to grow into a role, letting me make key decisions to the smooth running of my own depot.
Another large part is my workmates, working as a group allows you to move forward, so as much as the allegiance is with Martin Plant Hire it also to your fellow staff. Getting the correct staff in the different roles is of the upmost importance.
Biggest change in the company and/or industry that you’ve noticed in your time with Martin Plant Hire?
Computerisation of the hiredesks and then workshops (I am that long in the industry that we all had to have manual contracts, and these were invoiced and typed individually!)
Advice for anyone looking to get a foot in the door?
Try and do a trial period to make sure this is the correct career path. If you are competent then there are lots of opportunities to progress and not just restricted to the hire industry but in the construction service and supply industry as a whole.
Most valuable lesson you’ve learned at Martin Plant Hire?
Earn the trust of those you work with. Listen and do not be too quick to judge, whether that be a customer or staff member. And don’t drink cold tea!
You can usually find John at our Glasgow depot, located at 25 Robert Street (of Helen Street), Glasgow, G51 3HB. To contact the depot call 0141 445 4437.